Our experienced dental team is dedicated to providing personalised care and effective treatment options for various stages of gum disease.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the tissues that support and surround the teeth, including the gums, ligaments, and bones.
Types of Gum Disease
Gum disease is a prevalent dental condition that can have severe consequences when left untreated. This dental problem is classified into 2 main types.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease, and it usually results from poor oral hygiene. Symptoms include red, swollen, bleeding gums, and bad breath.
Gingivitis can often be treated and reversed with good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly, and getting regular dental cleanings.
Periodontitis
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which is a more severe form of gum disease.
In periodontitis, the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that can become infected. This can lead to bone and tooth loss, and it can also increase the risk of other health problems.
Treatment for periodontitis may include deep cleaning, medications, surgery, and ongoing maintenance to prevent the disease from recurring.
Your Path to Healthy Gums
At Belmont Dental Surgery, our dental team is committed to delivering personalised treatments tailored to your specific needs, aiming to safeguard your oral health and prevent the onset or advancement of gum disease.
We take pride in our approach, which places emphasis on individual care and guidance, ensuring that you receive the best possible treatment for a healthier and happier smile.
Keep Your Gums Healthy
Discover the key practices and habits that will help you achieve optimal gum health and ensure a confident and radiant smile:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day. This helps to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause gum disease. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently clean your teeth and gums.
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Floss to remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth and along the gum line. Use a gentle back-and-forth motion to clean the sides of each tooth and below the gumline.
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Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash to help reduce the amount of plaque and bacteria in your mouth. Look for a mouthwash that is specifically designed to fight gum disease.
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Enjoy a balanced and nutritious diet to help keep your gums healthy. Foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates can increase the risk of gum disease, so try to limit your intake of these foods.
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Restrict any smoking and or other tobacco products as they can increase the risk of gum disease and other oral health problems. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your oral and overall health.
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Practice stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation or yoga, to help keep your body and gums healthy. Stress can weaken your immune system, making it more difficult for your body to fight off infections.
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Attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings. These are essential in preventing and treating gum disease. Your dentist can help to identify and address any potential problems before they become more severe.
Frequently Asked Questions
At Belmont Dental Surgery, we understand the impact that gum disease can have on your oral health and overall wellbeing. We hope the questions we’ve listed below help you understand the condition and act as a guide on your next step.
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth and gums, which can lead to inflammation and infection.
How is gum disease diagnosed?
Your dentist will perform a comprehensive dental exam, including x-rays, to diagnose gum disease. They may also use a probe to measure the depth of the pockets around the teeth.
Is gum disease contagious?
No, gum disease is not contagious. However, the bacteria that cause gum disease can be spread through saliva, so it’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits to prevent the spread of infection.
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Where to find us
Belmont Dental Surgery
171 Belmont Avenue
Belmont WA 6104
Tel: (08) 9277 3837
Public Transport:
There are bus stops (Transperth stop ID 14265 & 14257) directly outside the practice which are serviced by bus numbers 286, 287, 380 and 935.
